KRU MARIA BASTASIN - DIRECTOR

Usually Bios are written as... Maria Bastasin started martial arts.....

But I want to tell you from me and my heart how martial arts, training and fighting changed my life.  Why I've decided to dedicate my life to it and now share this with so many people. I stepped into a Thai boxing gym about 12 years ago and it was love at first sight. Wanting a change in my daily routine and to get into shape I didn't know I was about to embark on a lifetime journey.  

 So the training began. Putting in the work, training 6 days a week. Twice a day. As time went on a hunger to get in the ring to fight grew with in me. And once I got in the ring. I knew it was really love. The feeling of pushing myself and doing things I never thought I could do. Working through all the bumps and bruises. Getting in the ring and putting it all down on the line. At that moment. When the bell goes off... That's the moment of truth.  That's when you get to paint your picture on the canvas. 

This Art.. This sport changed me. It helped me become the person I am today. And along the way I got to meet so many amazing people. I'm blessed to have had Kru Alin Halmagean as the man that stood by my side. Took the time to train me... Travel with me and guide me in and out of the ring.  Kru Alin took me into his home. I knew that if I was going to fight... The only coach I wanted was him. He has been my mentor since day 1.  Kru Alin has a ability to bring out the best or should I say beast in you. 

The journey I was on was not just about fighting in the ring. It was about being dedicated to a dream that not everyone understood. It was about proving to myself that  I could be the best Maria I could be. Facing fears and believing in myself. And along the way inspire other women... Other people. Everyday when I thought I couldn't do it anymore.  I was too sore, too tired to run. Those were the days I pushed even harder.  The 5 am runs... The cutting weight. The working through injuries. It was all worth it. As I dedicated myself to martial arts... I dedicated myself to everything else in my life.  I became determined. I understood that fighting is just like life.  Life is tough, and just like a fight you have to keep moving forward. I have taken what my Kru and what martial arts have taught me and put it into my life. I've learned to never underestimate the underdog, I've learned that when there is a will you always find a way. Success does not come without putting in the work.  Most importantly, I've learned that I wasn't just a girl in a man's sport. I was a person with a passion and dream. 

I don't know what or where I would be right now had I not had Thai boxing in my life. It helped keep me on a straight path. So many nights my weekends were spent in the gym grinding it out. Something in me knew that in the end it would all be worth it. 

I have bled and broken bones for this sport. I Sacrificed years in return for a life I would not change for anything. Martial arts is not just for people who want to fight., It's a way of life and journey of one self.

This sport... Will make or break you.  I promise you it will be worth it.